Bijan's Bistro, Chicago

###Five Things to Know About Bijan’s Bistro A staple in Chicago’s River North neighborhood since the mid-1980s, Bijan’s Bistro fuels the late-night crowd until the morning birds start chirping. Its well-appointed interior, highlighted by a mahogany bar, creates a casual, yet sophisticated lounge setting that the [Chicago Reader](http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/bijans-bistro/Location?oid=1023425) describes as “amazingly unsullied by tourists.” Read on for more on Bijan’s local charm: * **The food menu is a melting pot of influences.** American-style burgers and herb-roasted trout emerge from the kitchen alongside hearty pastas, caprese salad, and buttery escargot. * **Grab a martini and shmooze with the regulars.** Bijon’s bar is a popular hangout spot where locals sip cocktails and socialize deep into the night. * **Bring your sweet tooth.** Banana’s foster and cappuccino cheesecake end meals on a sweet note. * **They’re open way past your bedtime.** The lounge is open until at least 4 a.m. every day of the week, and until 5 a.m. on Saturdays. * **They serve breakfast daily, too.** Mexican chorizo omelets, bagel sandwiches, and crab cake florentine benedict highlight the full breakfast menu.